Andrew Kromelow Is a Key Figure in the History of Knolling

Andrew Kromelow is a key figure in the history of knolling, although he is not as widely recognized as some other names associated with the concept. Kromelow was a janitor at Frank Gehry's furniture fabrication shop. His contribution to knolling came about as a result of his methodical approach to organizing tools and objects.

Contribution to Knolling

1. Method of Organization: While working at Gehry's studio, Kromelow would meticulously arrange tools and other objects at right angles on a surface, especially at the end of the day. This method not only made the workspace orderly but also made it easier to find tools and components the next day.

2. Term Origin: The term "knolling" itself, however, wasn’t coined by Kromelow. It was named by Tom Sachs, an American contemporary artist, who was inspired by Kromelow’s method of organization. Sachs observed and adopted Kromelow's practice, later incorporating it into his own artistic process and naming it “knolling.”

Impact on Art and Design

• Influence on Tom Sachs: Sachs' adoption and promotion of knolling in his work brought wider attention to this method. It became a fundamental part of Sachs’ studio practice, emphasizing order and organization in the creative process.

• Spread Beyond Art: The concept of knolling has since spread beyond the realms of art and design, influencing photography, marketing, and even everyday organization techniques used by individuals.

Legacy

While Andrew Kromelow might not be a household name, his simple yet effective method of organizing tools in Gehry's workshop has had a lasting impact, evolving into a recognized and widely appreciated practice in various fields. The legacy of knolling, as initiated by Kromelow, lies in its promotion of simplicity, order, and clarity, both in artistic expression and in everyday life.